Alectinib is an anti-cancer medication. It belongs to the group of drug known as protein kinase inhibitors. It is prescribed by doctors for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (NSCLC) due to a defect in a gene called anaplastic lymphoma kinase or ALK.
Alectinib is approved by the U.S FDA as a first-line treatment of positive non-small cell lung cancer since 2017. It works by blocking chemicals in the body that causes the cancer cells to grow and spread. This medication is used when crizotinib treatment is unsuccessful.
How to use Alectinib?
Alectinib comes as a tablet form that you need to take by mouth. Your dose is based on the following:
The recommended dose for an adult is 600mg divided into 4 doses. Take this medication twice a day or as directed by your physician. The maximum daily dose is 1200mg a day. Take it with a meal and plenty of water. Do not take more than what is prescribed. If you vomit at your first dose, take your next dose at the regular time. Do not stop taking this medication unless you are instructed to by your physician. To reduce nausea, your doctor may prescribe anti-nausea medication.
What are the side effects of Alectinib?
Some of the side effects are:
Less common side effects are:
Stop taking the medication if you will experience any of the following side effects:
Important Information